The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Repair Patio Door Lock
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is an essential part of home security. It can be difficult when it isn't easy to lock.
In many cases, a stubborn lock is caused by the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It is possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close a door lock. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and helping your door reach its maximum lifespan.
To begin, you will have to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray can of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to spread the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that could damage your locks. Make repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to spray a little on the key itself.
Once your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great option for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are able to withstand freezing temperatures and are resistant to water. However, they might need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also apply de-icer spray specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will break up frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. This will enable you to unlock your lock and then unlock it with ease.
The climate will determine how often you should belubricating locks. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also impact the performance of your lock. It is recommended to lubricate locks at least two times each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door will function properly for the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't functioning correctly, it could indicate that one or more of the components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a defective patio door lock can prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, you can tighten loose screws and adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract with temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and can cause issues when opening or closing the patio door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder could be difficult to open, and could cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to remove any obstruction using a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been secured to the lock body it can be removed by removing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and it could also help restore the proper alignment.
Look for an elongated tab that is movable with the key. It is usually at the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. A standard key can move the tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and put back in.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pulled in and pulled out. Once you've restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test it for functioning. If the lock on your patio door isn't working properly It is likely that another component like the latch or latch spring needs to be replaced.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Over time, regular use temperatures, cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can cause damage to patio door locks. If not properly maintained these delicate components can wear out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily solved with just a few steps.
The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that may be present, and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can attract dust and other debris which could cause more issues.
If your patio door comes with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most cases, this will require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Remove the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment is complete you can tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is the misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is set higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take off the old handle and locate the screws or bolts that hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of them as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into place on the inside of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle is installed, reinstall the interior and exterior handles, making sure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door once you have made any necessary adjustments. If the door is correctly aligned, it should open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're still having problems, you may need to reposition your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can do by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and the door jamb to determine the type of lock you'll need to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is positioned on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it either horizontally or in an upward direction so that it is aligned with the holes in the latch. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it into position and tighten the screws.
Once all the components of your patio door have been relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them as instructed by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to make sure that it is in place and fits the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does then your patio door lock is now functioning just as it should and is can give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other components of your home should be aligned properly to work efficiently. Over time, temperature, cold, dirt, and debris could cause the hinges and door frame to shift. If these components are not aligned it's similar to trying to insert keys into the wrong hole for a key: It just doesn't work. You can solve the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. So give yourself an ovation for tackling this challenge and reclaiming your patio door's locked position! We're sure you won't experience any problems opening or closing your patio door. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.